Best Boston to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Boston to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,201 mile move from Massachusetts to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 54 Boston to Santa Rosa moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston compared to Santa Rosa. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Boston to Santa Rosa Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
5 | Celis Movers | 9.37 | 9.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Boston to Santa Rosa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,201 miles from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $4,503 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Santa Rosa move is roughly $10,898. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $3,017 | 300 ft³ | 10.06 |
1 Bedroom | $4,503 | 450 ft³ | 10.01 |
2 Bedrooms | $7,468 | 750 ft³ | 9.96 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,898 | 1100 ft³ | 9.91 |
4 Bedrooms | $15,772 | 1600 ft³ | 9.86 |
5+ Bedrooms | $17,653 | 1800 ft³ | 9.81 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Rosa to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Santa Rosa Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
Registered Drivers | 22 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |

OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |

Centaur Moving

171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |

Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (2023) |

Celis Movers
601 Petaluma Blvd N C
Petaluma, CA, 94952
About Celis Movers
Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...
Services
- Local moving services
- Nationwide moving services
- Strategic warehousing locations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2594954 / 921948 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 95,000 (2023) |

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Boston vs. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can feel like stepping into a new world. To ease the transition, we compare Boston, MA & Santa Rosa, CA local neighborhoods , helping you find areas with familiar vibes. Whether you're looking for vibrant street life, peaceful retreats, or family-friendly zones, we've got you covered.
Boston | Santa Rosa | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Back Bay | Montecito Heights | Historic homes, chic boutiques |
Beacon Hill | Proctor Terrace | Charming, with a strong sense of community |
South End | Ridgway Historic District | Diverse, artsy vibe |
North End | Downtown Santa Rosa | Rich history, excellent restaurants |
Fenway | Junior College Neighborhood | Youthful, energetic atmosphere |
Jamaica Plain | Oakmont | Green spaces, community-focused |
Charlestown | Bennett Valley | Family-friendly, with a sense of history |
South Boston | Coffey Park | Vibrant, friendly, with a strong local scene |
Dorchester | Roseland | Diverse, with a rich cultural fabric |
Allston-Brighton | West End Santa Rosa | Youthful energy, with cultural diversity |
If you're drawn to the historic and picturesque streets of Beacon Hill, with its quintessential brick homes and gas-lit lamps, you'll find a similar charm in Proctor Terrace. It boasts a warm community atmosphere alongside beautifully preserved homes. Meanwhile, fans of South End's trendy cafes, art studios, and bustling markets will love the Ridgway Historic District in Santa Rosa for its wonderful diversity and artsy vibe, encapsulated at places like Ridgway Historic District. For those who enjoy the youthful and lively spirit of Fenway, the Junior College Neighborhood offers an energizing mix of activities, underscored by educational institutions and community initiatives, making it a beacon for both students and professionals alike.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your lifestyle. This guide compares moving from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA , highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each location. Our charts aim to shed light on the differences, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
- Higher cost of living
- Harsh winters
- Urban congestion
- Smaller green spaces
- Lower cost of living
- Milder climate
- Less traffic
- More nature parks
- Less historical sites
- Smaller cultural scene
- More car dependency
- Narrower job field
- Rich history
- Vibrant culture
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse job market
While Boston is recognized for its vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and extensive public transit system, Santa Rosa offers a compelling alternative with its milder climate, less urban congestion, and more accessible nature parks such as Spring Lake Regional Park and Pepperwood Preserve. Though you might miss the historical sites like the Freedom Trail or the vast job opportunities in the tech and education sectors Boston is known for, Santa Rosa presents a tranquil, nature-infused lifestyle. Popular areas include the Railroad Square Historic District, where you can enjoy local restaurants like Stark's Steak & Seafood, offering a new community and career opportunities in sectors like wine production and healthcare. Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa means trading the bustling urban life and diverse job market for a slower-paced, nature-centric lifestyle with its own unique opportunities.
Boston vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Santa Rosa, CA is designed to help you understand the food scene in your new city. Recognizing food as a vital part of local culture and living experience, this overview aims to inform you about the culinary differences and similarities between these two places.
Boston | Santa Rosa | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Wine Country Cuisine |
Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Grilled Tri-tip |
Most popular street food item | Cannoli | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Avocado Toast |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Boston to Santa Rosa, you'll find that the local cuisine shifts from the seafood-heavy dishes like Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls, deeply rooted in Boston's maritime heritage, to a more diverse offering in Santa Rosa, influenced heavily by its location in California's Wine Country. Santa Rosa celebrates a farm-to-table ethos, with Wine Country Cuisine revolving around fresh, local ingredients paired meticulously with local wines. Moreover, Santa Rosa's food scene boasts an impressive array of vegan options, like the popular Avocado Toast, indicative of the city's health-conscious lifestyle. For those looking to indulge in the local food scene, Downtown Santa Rosa's Russian River Brewing Company and Stark's Steak & Seafood provide a taste of Sonoma County's finest, while the abundance of food trucks offers a casual yet diverse eating experience.
Boston vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new area feel like home. If you're moving from Boston, MA, to Santa Rosa, CA, this restaurant comparison chart aims to ease your transition by matching your beloved Boston eateries with their Santa Rosa counterparts. Familiar flavors can help bridge the gap between the old and the new, helping you discover your next favorite dining spots.
Boston | Santa Rosa | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Neptune Oyster | Willi's Seafood & Raw Bar | Fresh seafood and lively atmosphere |
Mamma Maria | Riviera Ristorante | Traditional Italian dishes in a cozy setting |
Mike's Pastry | Miracle Plum | Artisanal bakery with a local twist |
Toro | La Gare French Restaurant | Upscale dining with a focus on quality ingredients |
Bostonia Public House | Perch + Plow | Modern American cuisine in a chic urban space |
Union Oyster House | The Spinster Sisters | Known for their innovative and eclectic dishes |
Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar | El Coqui Puerto Rican Cuisine | Authentic flavors with a vibrant atmosphere |
Regina Pizzeria | Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar | Artisan pizzas with a Californian flair |
Tatte Bakery & Café | Acre Coffee | Great coffee and pastries in a comfortable setting |
Oleana | Khoom Lanna | Exceptional Thai cuisine with a focus on fresh, local produce |
Moving from the historical charm of Boston to the vineyard-surrounded landscapes of Santa Rosa might seem like a vast culinary leap, but the essence of dining - savoring delicious foods within vibrant atmospheres - remains the same. Places like Willi's Seafood & Raw Bar echo the fresh, maritime vibes of Neptune Oyster, making the transition softer for seafood lovers. Similarly, the authentic Italian experiences offered by Riviera Ristorante serve as a comforting reminder of meals enjoyed at Mamma Maria. For pastry aficionados missing Mike's Pastry, Miracle Plum presents an array of artisanal baked goods that promise a taste of home, albeit with a local twist. Whether you're craving the robust flavors of hand-tossed pizzas, rich Italian pastas, or freshly baked pastries, Santa Rosa's dining scene is equipped to offer familiar comforts along with new culinary adventures.

Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing real estate between your current and future home is crucial. Boston, MA and Santa Rosa, CA differ significantly in terms of housing costs, styles, and urban lifestyle . This guide aims to highlight those differences to aid in your decision-making process.
Comparison | Boston | Santa Rosa |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Colonial | California Modern, Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to Public Transportation, Historic Details | Vineyard Proximity, Open Spaces |
Boston offers a bustling urban lifestyle with excellent walkability, making it perfect for those who love city life and have an appreciation for historical architecture like Victorian and Colonial-style homes. On the other hand, Santa Rosa, located in the heart of wine country, presents a more laid-back lifestyle with its California Modern and Craftsman homes, emphasizing open spaces and proximity to vineyards. This distinct difference in vibe and architecture is crucial for future homeowners to consider, along with the fact that Boston's higher cost of living and rent reflects its urban density and East Coast location, whereas Santa Rosa offers a slightly more affordable and spacious living environment.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA
1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.
2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.
3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.
Boston vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another involves adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison between Boston, MA and Santa Rosa, CA highlights key differences to help you understand what to expect. Knowing the weather conditions you'll face is crucial for a smooth transition.
Boston, MA
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Boston | Santa Rosa |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Nor'easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Shifting from Boston to Santa Rosa involves adjusting to milder winters and enjoying more days of sunshine annually. While Boston experiences significant snowfall, in Santa Rosa, snow is virtually unheard of. Moreover, Santa Rosa's higher average UV index means you'll likely need to integrate more sun protection into your daily routine. The threat of natural disasters shifts from winter storms in Boston to earthquakes and wildfires in California, underscoring the importance of preparing for different types of emergencies when relocating.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa
If you're planning a move, it's essential to grasp how the cost of living in Boston and Santa Rosa will impact your finances. This comparison will help prepare you for the financial adjustments needed when transitioning from one city to another.
Comparison | Boston | Santa Rosa |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $86,459 |
Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 5 | 13.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.2 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 8.75 |
Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Wine, Tourism, Healthcare |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
Homelessness | High | High |
Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa will bring financial changes, particularly in the average household income and cost of living. While the average income in Boston is higher, Santa Rosa offers a slightly lower cost of living. However, the higher state income tax in California might offset some of these benefits. The property tax in Santa Rosa is significantly lower than in Boston, which could be advantageous for home buyers. Moreover, the sales tax in Santa Rosa is higher, reflecting California's overall tax structure. Despite these differences, both cities share moderate to high levels of poverty and homelessness, highlighting broader socio-economic challenges.
Boston vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA, understanding the comparison of the politics between Boston & Santa Rosa alongside the religious landscape is paramount. This quick snapshot aims to provide a glance at the political and religious makeup of these communities, helping you grasp the cultural milieu you're moving into.
Boston | Santa Rosa | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
Local Politics | Democratic Dominance | Democratic Lean |
Religion | Varied, with a Catholic Majority | Diverse, Less Religious Overall |
In both Boston and Santa Rosa, the political landscape is predominantly liberal, though the specific local political scene can vary. Boston tends to have a stronger Democratic dominance within its local politics, reflecting the city’s long-standing historical ties to the Democratic Party. Santa Rosa, while also leaning Democratic, might present a more varied political scene influenced by its West Coast setting. Religion plays a different role in each city; Boston's population includes a significant Catholic majority amidst its diverse religious community. In contrast, Santa Rosa is known for its more diverse and less religiously affiliated population, reflecting broader trends across California. This could mean a different community atmosphere when it comes to religious institutions and public expressions of faith.
Boston vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA, it's important to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Santa Rosa will help you better prepare for what to expect.
Comparison | Boston | Santa Rosa |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 22 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Yes | More challenging |
In Boston, you'll find a robust public transportation system with the MBTA, encompassing subways, buses, and even ferries, making it quite feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The higher traffic congestion reflects the city's dense layout and active economy. On the other hand, Santa Rosa, while boasting less traffic congestion, has a public transit system that isn't as extensive. This makes owning a car more of a necessity for convenient daily travel. Considering these factors will significantly influence your adaptation to your new home.



Additional Resources
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